NFL 2019: Whittlesea destroys Epping in Division 2

Whittlesea marked the start of the NFL season in the best way possible after romping to a 91-point win.

Riley Dyson starred for Whittlesea on Saturday. Picture: James Ross

Whittlesea marked the start of the NFL season in the best way possible after romping to a 91-point win.

In their first game in Division 2 after relegation from the top flight, the Eagles displayed their wares in a massive 23.15 (153) to 9.8 (62) victory over Epping.

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Despite the margin, first-year coach Blair Harvey thought the scoreboard flattered his outfit.

“I don’t think it reflected the game,” he said.

“They (Epping) were really good for three quarters, then a bit of a breeze kicked up in the last and we kicked away.

“To get a win like that in Round 1 is very pleasing, but there is still a lot of improvements to be made.”

Whittlesea burst out of the blocks with six goals to three in the opening quarter, banging home another seven majors during the second term to take a 41-point lead at the long break.

The Eagles went on to add another 10 goals to two in the second half to complete the rout.

The way the team came together, considering the number of new faces, was the most pleasing thing for Harvey.

He said big pre-seasons by some of his players had been rewarded, with ruckman Nathan Stefanile heading that list. Captain Riley Dyson, vice-captain Xavier Dimasi and leadership group member Jaron Murphy (four goals) led by example, while recruits Lachlan Beattie and Harrison Jarvie impressed in their first games.

Young forward Samuel Indian also booted four majors and was one of 13 different goalkickers.

“We are looking forward to the next couple of weeks when we take on Diamond Creek and Eltham,” Harvey said.

“I think they are going to be strong and will give us a good idea of where we’re at early in the year, where we sit in the scheme of things in the division.”